Hand painted miniature portraits were the predecessors of photographs. When there was no other way to record a likeness of someone, the miniatures were treasured and passed down in families. Some portrait miniatures were painted of a specific person, and others were of classic style beauties rather than a particular real person. Often, these pieces were made into jewelry and worn as decoration, such as our brooch. The Victorians loved to hearken back to earlier periods in time, and we think that this is such an example.
Finely hand painted on porcelain, this brooch depicts a Bavarian youth against a pastel sky. From his rosy cheeks, to his shiny locks, he embodies health and vitality. The gold filled frame is made to resemble roping vines, with leafy prongs to hold the porcelain disc in place. A wonderful, classic work of art which is essential to any collector of antique jewelry!
Note: there are some scratches on the surface of the porcelain, but the integrity of the piece remains despite the wear.
Details (approximate)
Weight: 8.7 grams
Materials: Metal, hand painted porcelain
Metal: Gold filled over brass
Marks: None
Condition: Good antique condition; some wear on surface of porcelain.
LORL, LOE